With nearly 675,000 residents and over 20 million visitors annually, Washington, DC’s specialty coffee scene has a lot of traffic to keep up with. Luckily, the local coffee shops can easily meet the high demand.

Over the past decade, numerous roasters have hit the area, specializing in sustainable sourcing, local business connections, and good-quality coffee. The cafés have matched their passion by offering unique spaces, perfectly blended espresso drinks, and a commitment to coffee that rivals the best of the best.

For those looking for a cup of coffee in Washington, DC, here are five cafés to whet your appetite.

Why These Five?

In a city this large, and a specialty scene expanding this rapidly, it would be impossible to pick the five “best”. Each place on our list is one of our personal favorites, and taken together they serve as a great introduction to Washington’s specialty scene. Whether you’re seeking single origin pour overs, a cozy vibe to indulge in a supreme cappuccino and pastry, or a place to learn more about third wave coffee, you’ll find it here.

But if you have a little more time on your hands, we encourage you to explore further – there’s plenty to see and drink in the nation’s capital.

The brew bar at La Colombe Coffee Roasters, Blagden Alley.

1. La Colombe Coffee Roasters, Blagden Alley

This line of boutique coffee shops got its start in Philadelphia in 1994, but their first DC location in Blagden Alley cannot be overlooked. Its cozy red-brick walls, industrial garage door which sits open on warmer days, and alleyway murals make it a stylish place to stop for a coffee.

And while it may be a chain, La Colombe is serious about its specialty coffee. In fact, Co-Founder Todd Carmichael is the subject of the Travel Channel’s Dangerous Grounds as he sets out to source the best beans from the remotest places. It’s no wonder the café’s seasonal menu is excellent – and almost always boasts a Geisha.

If you get something brewed to order, be prepared to pay a little more than usual, around $6-7. But when you’re served your delectable coffee on La Colombe’s iconic, Instagram-worthy china, you’ll have no complaints.

2. Peregrine Espresso, Union Market

No trip to DC is complete without a stop at Union Market, and popping into Peregrine Espresso is a great reason to do so. Peregrine is an esteemed coffee shop with award-winning baristas, and they have the hardware to prove it.

While the baristas are expertly preparing your drink, feel free to ask about food recommendations around Union Market – they’re bound to have some tasty suggestions!They’re also comfortable taking and refining orders using American Sign Language.

Try to head here on a weekday, since on weekends you’re sure to encounter a long line. Alternatively, consider popping into one of their other two locations.

3. Zeke’s Coffee DC

Zeke’s is a family business that began in Baltimore and made its way to DC in 2008, officially opening a storefront in 2013. What makes Zeke’s stand out among other local coffee shops is its use of an air roaster. Capable of roasting customizable batches, this machine uses hot air to roast the coffee beans evenly, keeping them consistent and preventing them from burning, all while using 80% less energy than a drum roaster.

Zeke’s specializes in fair trade, organic, and sustainable beans, and for optimal sampling they offer several different manual brew methods, including an AeroPress – and it’s the only location on this list with one. In addition to participating in 15 local farmer’s markets, their product is touted by over 50 stores, restaurants, and cafés in the area, so you know it’s good!

4. Filter Coffeehouse and Espresso Bar, Dupont Circle

Filter’s flagship café makes you feel like you’ve entered a secret cave of coffee paradise. It’s in the basement of a classic DC brownstone in Dupont Circle, but there’s no way you’ll miss it: the door is bright orange. There are also orange, coffee-shaped bike racks outside – the staff at Filter love their cycling, and it shows in the bike theme.

Once you walk in, you’ll be greeted by some of the friendliest and most knowledgeable baristas around. And although seating can be hard to come by, you’ll notice people are comfortable flowing out onto the steps and adjoining walls outside.

This humble café sources its coffee from a local roaster, Ceremony Coffee in Annapolis, with whom they’ve created a custom espresso blend just for their shop. Since many coffee lovers also appreciate good quality chocolate, Filter chooses single origin organic chocolate for their mochas and hot chocolate.

5. The Wydown Coffee Bar

The Wydown is the youngest café on this list, originally operating as a pop-up before opening up their brick and mortar in June 2014. It’s also the only place with rotating and guest roasters, and boasts the largest in-store retail selection.

The crew is selective about what company they go with, though. If decaf is your game, they’re sure to have found the best bean out there. And if you go at just the right time, you might be able to grab one of their made-from-scratch pastries right out of the oven.

With a comfortable atmosphere and baristas who remember your name, it’s no wonder this place has gained such a loyal following so quickly.

Washington DC has numerous coffee shops to choose from, each with its own unique vibe. In fact, this introduction to the District’s coffee offerings just skims the surface. But whether you’re a local beginning to immerse yourself in the coffee scene, or a traveller passing through town and looking for the best cup of specialty java, this list is a great jumping off point. Happy sipping!